The Fiji Labour Party is raising concerns over the recommendation to operate a single sugar mill in the Western region, arguing that such a decision would impose significant financial burdens on sugarcane farmers and lorry operators. Labour leader Mahendra Chaudhry criticized the perspectives of the Chinese consultants involved, suggesting they failed to fully consider the negative impacts on both the industry and local farmers.
Last week, Sugar Minister Charan Jeath Singh shared the experts’ belief that consolidating operations to one efficient mill would be preferable to maintaining two underperforming facilities. While the final decision regarding which mill would close is still pending, Ba has been identified as a potential site for the new mill.
Chaudhry contends that this recommendation overlooks crucial issues such as the anticipated traffic congestion during the harvesting season and the government’s commitment to increasing sugarcane yields and revitalizing the industry. He underscored the lack of consultation with farmers, questioning the Minister’s hasty decisions on vital industry matters that could exacerbate existing challenges within the sugar sector.
This discussion echoes broader concerns regarding the sustainability and efficiency of Fiji’s sugar industry, particularly in light of recent evaluations conducted by Chinese engineers aimed at improving mill operations. The ongoing challenges, including labor shortages and environmental impacts, underscore the need for strategic solutions that prioritize both economic viability and farmer welfare.
While the situation poses significant challenges, it also presents opportunities for improvement and modernization within the industry. Emphasizing collaboration and comprehensive stakeholder engagement could lead to practical solutions that not only address immediate operational issues but also set the foundation for a more resilient sugar sector in the future.
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